Showcasing the best of Polk County

AUGUST 2017

Here we are, already facing October and thinking about plans for next year. It doesn’t even see real sometimes at how fast time can fly. Speaking of time, I have had over the last few months many businesses talk about how difficult marketing and getting prepared for each new business season (and they are many in the business world) is these days. Competing with the larger corporate businesses is never at a standstill. They always seem to be two seasons ahead at any rate; so how can a small business compete? My thought on this that you can’t compare the two businesses and not to look at it as a competition. Small businesses bring such a uniqueness all in their own that larger corporate businesses can’t even fathom to bring to the table. So, when you are thinking about marketing and selling to your customers, think about your uniqueness and what that can bring to your business. Are you giving your customers all you have in the knowledge of your products and helping them find creative ways to use them? With so many avenues of social media now, have you thought of doing a blog or simply a live daily feed showcasing some of your new store items along with a ‘how to’ tutorial. It could be something as simple as a new shipment of scarves and showing your audience the different ways to wear them. Another thought would be to have a special class for your customers to participate in such as if you are a furniture store or sell upcycled antiques you can offer a class where someone could demonstrate to them how to properly paint or stain the furniture. Or, if you are selling food, how about hosting a private evening showcase of your newest menu item and ask for feedback? Showing to your customers that you are willing to listen to them gives them a feeling of camaraderie and they are more likely to share with others their experience and why they should shop at your store. I encourage you as a small business owner to think outside of the box, find what your uniqueness is and sell it! The Chamber is always here to help you with ideas, resources and a listening ear. We want to see businesses thrive in our community and are here to help in any way we can. Give us a call or stop by we would love to hear from you! Mandy Mallicoat- Programs Director Polk County Chamber of Commerce 133 S. Marble Street | Rockmart, GA 30153 609 S. Main Street | Cedartown, GA 30125 Office: 770-684-8760 mmallicoat@polkgeorgia.com | www. polkgeorgia.com